What Is the Best Way To Store a Mattress in a Storage Unit?

The best way to store a mattress in a storage unit is to clean and dry it thoroughly, place it in a protective mattress bag, and keep it flat to help prevent sagging or warping. If you don't have room to store it flat, a spring mattress can be placed on its side for short-term storage.

How to Clean a Mattress Before Storing It

1. Remove all bedding and use an upholstery attachment to vacuum the entire mattress, paying close attention to seams and crevices.

2. Blot any stains with a mild cleaner and a cloth. Avoid soaking the mattress.

3. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, let it sit for several hours to absorb odors and moisture, then vacuum it all up.

4. Place the mattress in a well-ventilated area or in direct sunlight to ensure it is completely dry before you wrap it.

How to Store Different Types of Mattresses

After the mattress has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, put it in a plastic mattress bag to shield it from dust and pests. Secure the bag with tape, and place it on a raised block or a clean, dry surface in the storage unit. From there, the best storage method depends on the type of mattress you have:

• Spring Mattresses:

  Store flat to protect the coils from bending. Short-term, they can be stored on their side to save space—but it's best to rotate them periodically for even pressure distribution. Ideally, choose a storage unit with climate control to protect against mold and mildew.

• Memory Foam Mattresses:

  Always store flat, as foam can warp under prolonged compression. While memory foam is shipped compressed, rolling or compressing it for storage can permanently damage the foam. Choose a unit with climate control to prevent heat or cold from damaging the foam.

• Hybrid Mattresses:

  Store flat to protect both coils and foam. A climate-controlled unit is best to prevent rust, warping, or foam degradation.

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need for a Mattress?

Most mattress sizes can be stored in a storage unit. Here are the recommended storage unit sizes, depending on the type of mattress you have:

• Twin or Twin XL: 5x5 unit on its side, or 5x10 unit if stored flat

• Full or Queen: 5x5 unit on its side, or 5x10 unit if stored flat

• King or California King: 5x10 unit on its side, or 10x10 unit if stored flat

If you plan to store other furniture or boxes along with your mattress, you will need to size up accordingly.

Should I Use a Climate-Controlled Unit for Mattress Storage?

Yes, using a climate-controlled storage unit is highly recommended for storing a mattress, especially for long-term storage or in areas with fluctuating temperatures and high humidity.